Kassandra Halkidiki: 11 highlights on the western finger

Kassandra was the last stop of our Halkidiki trip and it is not without reason that we have saved the western finger until the end. At the beginning of October, it was already pleasantly quiet on Kassandra, most of the holidaymakers had left and the daytime temperatures were still pleasant to explore this part of Halkidiki extensively.

“If you come to Kassandra in summer, you have to be prepared for a lot of hustle and bustle and crowded beaches. In the off-season, on the other hand, you immediately feel at home on the left finger of Halkidiki.”

Since Kassandra (also written as Cassandra) was separated from the rest of Halkidiki by a canal, it is actually an island. And indeed, we had the feeling that we were closer to the Aegean Sea than to the Greek mainland. Compared to its mountainous sisters, it is gently hilly with green pine and olive groves, miles of sandy beaches and crystal clear waters.

Through the proximity to Thessaloniki, Kassandra is the most visited and touristically developed peninsula on Halkidiki. Package tourism dominates the holiday resorts on the east coast in particular. On the other hand, things are a little quieter in the southwest and hinterland of Kassandra, where individualists will find cozy accommodations away from the crowds.

In the following, we present the top sights of Kassandra as well as our personal highlights and give the most important tips for a successful holiday:

#1 Canal of Potidea and surroundings

The gate to Kassandra forms the village of Nea Potidea, which is located in the far north at the narrowest point of the peninsula. The isthmus is intersected by the Potidea Channel in an east-west direction. The waterway, which connects the Thermaic Gulf with the Toronean Gulf, is said to have existed in ancient times and has been excavated again and again for shipping over the centuries.

The modern settlement of Nea Potidea was founded in 1922 by refugees from Eastern Thrace and extends over the entire isthmus. To the east is the long city beach with numerous taverns and cafes. In October, it was almost deserted and the crystal clear sea invited us to refresh ourselves.

To the west is the center of Nea Potidea with a large platia. Here you can also linger comfortably in the evening (tip: To Kritamo). The street Kassandreias leads directly to the emerald green Canal of Potidea and reveals some historical remains of past centuries.

In the idyllic tavern Ta Kastra you can enjoy delicious Greek cuisine between old Byzantine castle walls. At the western end of the canal is the fishing port of Potidea, which offers some interesting photo opportunities.

Agios Mamas

About ten minutes north of Potidea lies Agios Mamas, a village that seems unspectacular at first glance, with a strong agricultural focus. Nature lovers will get their money’s worth here, however, because the swamp area of Agios Mamas is an important breeding area for protected bird species and resting place for migratory birds.

If you are on site in spring, you can walk to the lagoons of the Agios Mamas Wetlands and observe majestic flamingos. Between dunes and reeds, one or the other turtle is also hiding. During our visit in October, they crossed our paths several times, and the heather had turned a fairytale orange-red.

On the southern outskirts of Agios Mamas, the largest folk festival in Halkidiki is celebrated every year at the village church of the same name. Hundreds of thousands of visitors then flock to the bazaar-like grounds, where textiles, household goods and toys, among other things, are offered at reasonable prices.

Nea Moudania

The largest town in Halkidiki is left behind by many holidaymakers. Nea Moudania is not a feast for the eyes and with a little more than 9,000 inhabitants, the small town seems too modern and offers little holiday feeling. It also took us three attempts to make friends with the place – the first visits were only for laundry. Wrongly!

In the chessboard-like street system you will find all shops for daily needs. In addition, in the centre rises the remarkable church of Agios Georgios, built in 2004 in the old Byzantine style. Stis Tsoukkas, which we found by chance in the maze of alleys, is one of the best restaurants in Halkidiki for us.

The heart of the city, however, beats at the harbour of Nea Moudania: the 500-metre-long waterfront promenade is lined with bars, taverns and cafés. Especially in the evening we enjoyed the atmosphere. Nautical fans should visit the Fishing Museum of Nea Moudania, which gives insights into the history of fishing and seafaring in Halkidiki. Admission is free, open from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. (except weekends).

• Restaurant tips for Nea Moudania: Stis Tsoukkas, Glyko Fai, Amelia Cocktail Restaurant
• Café tips for Nea Moudania: Surreal Bistro, ΝΤΑΜΑ Cafe

#2 Sani Dunes and Stavronikita Beach

West of Kassandra is a kilometre-long stretch of beach with snow-white dunes and an extensive pine forest right by the sea. In the middle of nature lies the Sani Resort, the luxury resort on Halkidiki par excellence. When Zisiadis and Andreadis came up with the idea of opening a hotel here in the 1960s, they found nothing but sand dunes, pine forests and swamps.

The locals smiled at their visions, but there was enough money, so they bought the monastic republic Athos part of the country. This was the beginning of the success story of the luxurious holiday resort. Now operating in a modern style, the Sani Beach Hotel was originally built in 1971 as a simple motel. However, it paved the way for tourism in Halkidiki.

Today, the resort presents itself as a colourful mix of hotels on 400 hectares, its own marina, 35 restaurants and cafés, various wellness oases and sports facilities and even shopping facilities. After a long walk on Sani Beach, we did not miss the opportunity to explore the resort from the inside. Except for the exclusive Sani Asterias Suites everything is nearly freely accessible.

In the hotel’s own Bousoulas Beach Bar you can treat yourself to an exclusive drink, mind you, it was the most expensive Freddo coffee for us after 15 years in Greece. Directly at Cape Sani, the Stavronikita Tower is still a remnant from the Middle Ages. The well-preserved tower in the luxury paradise looks like a silent witness to poorer centuries.

North of the Sani Resort, at the height of the Stavronikita Beach, there is an extensive swamp and wetland, the Sani Wetlands, with a great wealth of animals. In autumn, we were able to observe some herons and other bird species (including hoopoes) in the air and frogs and turtles in the water. Around the moor there are numerous paths for extended cycling tours.

A little south of the resort leads a nature trail (approx. 3 km), called Sani Walk, to Golden Beach (Olympos Beach). The easy hike runs for long stretches through fragrant pine forest and offers magnificent views of the coast due to its elevated position above the sea.

#3 Nea Fokea and Agios Pavlos Tower

Nea Fokea (also Nea Fokaia) is located at about the same altitude as Sani, but on the east coast of Kassandra. Derived from the syllable “Nea”, it is a newly founded settlement with a checkerboard-like floor plan, which was created 100 years ago when thousands of Greek refugees from Asia Minor came to Halkidiki (Asia Minor Catastrophe).

To the left and right of the town are extensive pine forests and beautiful beaches, such as the untouched Pine Forest Beach (see #9). The Plateia Theodorou tou Fokaeos with its traditional taverns (tip: Kydoni) invites you to linger and except in July and August, the village of 1,200 inhabitants is tranquil.

The beach promenade is also a good place to stroll, colourful boats bob in the small fishing harbour and an imposing tower from the Byzantine era rises up on a hill. The Tower of Agios Pavlos is 17 meters high and is believed to have been built in the 14th century by Athos monks as part of a monastery complex in honor of the apostle Paul.

Last restored in 1976, it is now almost intact and offers a magnificent view of the fishing village. Unfortunately, the tower is locked, but next door there is a former farm building of the monastery and the Apostle Church, built in 1868. In the Thokos Cafe Bar Bistro directly below the Nea Fokea Tower, you can treat yourself to a drink before the next highlight awaits you.

Cave of St. Paul the Apostle

In addition to the tower, there is another attraction in Nea Fokea, which is especially interesting for spiritual and religious people. If you cross the road from the parking lot on the beach, you will come through an inconspicuous gate to the Cave Church of the Apostle Paul. A tiny wooden door leads into a compact cave complex that served as a burial chamber in ancient times.

In the vestibule there are icons and a candlestick, then it goes down a few steps and then crosses a shaft barely one meter high over a length of about 50 meters in crawling gear. At the end of the cave there is a baptismal font and altar in honour of the Apostle Paul. A mystical place, oppressive and fascinating at the same time!

According to legend, the apostle found refuge here when he was pursued on his way to Thessaloniki. You should have a flashlight or mobile phone light with you and the cave is not recommended for people with claustrophobia. Our little daughter liked it so much in the cave that she wanted to go in and out several times.

#4 Afytos: Kassandra’s most beautiful village

The most beautiful village on Kassandra is located in the east of the peninsula and outshines all concrete neighboring villages with its traditional Macedonian architecture. Afytos (also Afithos, Athytos or Afitos) has 1,200 inhabitants and is located about 50 m above the coast.

Since the inner town centre is traffic-calmed, you can park your rental car in one of the parking lots (some of which are subject to a fee) on the outskirts of town. From here you make your way on foot through the pretty alleys to the promenade.

The place hangs over the coast like a balcony, the view of the turquoise blue sea is breathtaking. In the Notos All Day Bar you can enjoy the fantastic panorama with a cool Freddo Cappuccino.

Behind the boulevard is the central platia of Afytos. The village square, shaded by a large plane tree, is home to the Folklore Museum of Afitos, which is only open in the evening.

From here you continue to the heart of Afytos with its numerous cafés, bars and souvenir shops (tip: Xenia Gaia). The eye-catcher is the church of Agios Dimitrios from 1859, which is open for festivals and church services. A nice photo motif is also the old pharmacy behind the folklore museum.

The long sandy beach of Afitos can be reached by car or on foot via a staircase that leads down from Bar Notos. On the way, you will pass a rock spring and the white Theotokou Chapel. The fine Afytos Beach, which slopes gently into the crystal clear sea, was one of our favorite places to swim in Halkidiki.

#5 Visit to Kassandria

In the center of Kassandra lies the largest place of the left finger of Halkidiki. Kassandreia is authentic and not dressed up for international tourists, we liked that immediately. 3,000 people live in the large village, whose name goes back to King Cassander (350 – 297 BC), a general of Alexander the Great.

In ancient times, the city was still close to the sea near today’s Nea Potidea. Over the centuries, it was exposed to armed conflicts and was often destroyed. Today’s architecture is predominantly modern, but the white houses with the red roofs have their charm with some traditional elements.

For example, the church of St. Mary Genniseos tis Theotokou from 1850 one of the oldest buildings and towers over all roofs. Around the Plateia Eleftherias with its thousand-year-old plane tree, as well as at the new Martyrs’ Church Christodoulos Kassandrinos you will find good cafés (tip: Bougatsa Refectory Andreas) and traditional taverns (tip: Tavern Thomas).

Our personal highlight was the weekly market in Kassandria. Every Tuesday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. there is a lot of hustle and bustle in the alleys. Traders and farmers from all over Halkidiki come to Kassandria to sell their regional products such as fruit, vegetables and herbs (e.g. Holomon Organic Herbs), but also textiles and handicrafts.

A colorful mix that invites you to stroll and talk to the locals. After visiting the weekly market, you should try the original Botana Bio Shop Vegan Superfoods, a mixture of coffee roastery, organic and souvenir shop. Delicious bread and Greek pastries can be found in the Bakery Alexiou Mikhail.

Tzikas’ Family Winery

Wine lovers make a detour the only commercial winery on Kassandra. Tzikas Winery is located about 500 m west of the exit of Kassandria directly on the road, the huge decorative wine bottle stands out from afar. The wines are grown biodynamically by Giannis and his wife, and there are now about 10 types of wine and two tsipouro (Greek grappa) available for purchase.

Giannis explains with passion and knowledge in his local winery why his wines are something very special. A wine tasting starts at 10 €, the bottle prices are around 30 € due to the small number of bottles and thus above the average of the Halkdiki Wines. The vineyards behind the house can be visited after the tasting.

#6 Cape Possidi and Lighthouse

To the west of Kassandra lies the resort of Possidi, which consists mainly of small hotels, apartment complexes and taverns. The highlight here is the Cape Possidi, which adjoins the village to the west. With its sandy headland that juts far into the Thermaic Gulf, the beach of Possidi has already made it into many a travel catalogue.

What looks quite impressive on drone images is in reality just an unspectacular long stretch of beach made of coarse gravel and with a lot of alluvial seaweed. In our opinion, you can save yourself the visit when the waves are strong, then the sea is murky and swimming is almost impossible.

If there is no wind, it is worth taking a 15-minute walk on the beach to the top of the triangular headland. The car can be parked in an unpaved parking lot near the Possidi Lighthouse. Since there have been more car break-ins here in the past, we recommend not leaving any valuables in the car!

If you want to spend a day swimming, you have to bring your own umbrella and food, as the Possidi Beach is completely natural. A nice photo motif is the lighthouse at the cape, built in 1864, which stands somewhat set back between pine forests and oleander bushes.

The remains of the ancient Temple of Poseidon at the entrance to the cape, from which the name of the village Possidi derives, are unfortunately fenced, not maintained and therefore not worth a visit. It is a pity that the few archaeological sites in Halkidiki are hardly accessible to the public, no comparison to the historic one Peloponnese.

#7 Polichrono, Chanioti and Pefkochori

Polichrono, Chanioti and Pefkochori are among the most popular holiday resorts in Halkidiki and offer the widest range of accommodation on the peninsula. From simple studios to expensive villas, there is something for every budget. The strong (mass) tourism has left its mark and many dark sides come to light.

If you are hoping for a Greek idyll and a place to relax, you are out of place here. Especially in the summer months, the individual towns are very busy, then no deck chair remains unused on the long beaches and in the evenings it can get crowded in the alleys.

Not only Greeks are drawn to Pefkochori & Co., Eastern Europeans have also discovered the holiday resorts for themselves. Strolling, sunbathing and partying are the main focus, and there are also numerous taverns, cafés and souvenir shops that round off the offer for holidaymakers. Gastronomy prices (except beach bars) are low due to competition.

Polichrono

Polichrono is the northernmost of the three holiday villages on the east coast of Cassandra. After crossing the artificially spiced up village of Kriopigi, you will pass numerous hotel complexes and a kilometre-long coastal road with holiday villas and shortly afterwards reach the town of 1,000 inhabitants.

An original town centre is no longer discernible, like many places in Halkidiki, the modern concrete architecture is also characteristic here. At least the three churches of Agios Athanasios, Ag. Nikolaos and Gennisis to Xristou still exude some Greek flair. The Folklore Museum of Polychrono, which normally provides insights into past times, was closed during our visit.

Polychrono Beach is paved with deck chairs and overcrowded in summer. We missed the otherwise clear sea water of Halkidiki here. Even in the low season we had great problems finding a parking space. Just drive to the beach promenade and stroll a bit – no chance! If you like it quieter, you can switch to the surrounding, natural beach sections.

• Restaurant tips in Polichrono: Nefeli Garden Restaurant, El Gato Negro, Mourmoura
• Café-tips in Polichrono: Salty Sea Side Bar, Gelato Polichrono

Detour to Lake Mavrobara

In the hinterland of Polychrono, nature lovers will enjoy a small nature reserve known as Mavrobara Turtle Lake. From the coast it is about 5 km to the turtle lake, which can be reached on foot or by car via a gravel road.

A visit is especially worthwhile with children, because as the name suggests, there are some pond turtles (Mauremys rivulata) to discover here. The pond is surrounded by lush vegetation and a picnic area invites you to linger. Attention: The path from the main road to the hinterland is shared by the trucks of the local concrete plant.

Chanioti

Only 5 km from Polichrono is the holiday resort of Chanioti situated. Here, you have to be prepared for many tourists, too. Around the pine-shaded main square with fountains, numerous restaurants, cafés and shops have settled. In October it was quiet here, in summer there is a fairground atmosphere here, according to our friend Janni.

On the way to the long sandy beach you will come across the church of Agios Ioannis Chrisostomos (mid-19th century), undoubtedly the highlight of Chanioti. Those interested in culture can take a look inside during the service and admire the valuable icons and the richly decorated wooden iconostasis. But it also offers a worthwhile photo motif from the outside.

A few meters north is the municipal Beach park of Chanioti, which adds a little more charm to the place. The surrounding cafés are a great place to linger and enjoy the view over the sea. Unfortunately, the beach is also paved with countless umbrellas.

For a relaxing day swimming, we recommend the natural Pallini Beach on the eastern outskirts of the village, which can be reached from the road via trails. If you are looking for a quiet change from the busy sea, visit the modern Monastery of Hosios John in the mountains. The friendly monks guide you through the well-kept monastery complex in the morning and from 5 p.m. onwards.

• Restaurant tips in Chanioti: Kassandra’s Balcony Restaurant, Pallini Restaurant
• Café tips in Chanioti: Paralio Cocktail Bar, Lemonis Bakery

Pefkochori

Pefkochori is the largest of the three holiday resorts with just under 2,000 inhabitants. The settlement has existed since the 16th century and was called Kapsochora until 60 years ago. Unfortunately, hardly anything of the historic building fabric has been preserved. Tourism began as early as the 1970s and so up to three-storey houses reach directly to the sea.

Along the main street, tourist shops, souvlaki grills and café bars are lined up lovelessly. The architectural highlight is the large Marian temple Koimisis tis Theotokou in the heart of the town.

A little further south is the old village square (Palia Plateia) with the 1843 built church of Agios Athanasios. It’s a secluded spot away from the coastal hustle and bustle with some rustic taverns and original shops (tip: Honey and Olive oil).

The Pefkochori Beach, advertised in travel catalogues as one of the most beautiful beaches of Halkidiki, disappointed us personally. Too crowded, too dirty, too built-up. The only beautiful fixed point is the palm avenue and the remains of the pine forest (Greek: Pefki) on the Tridente Mare Apart Hotel, where a sandy headland juts out into the sea.

• Restaurant tips in Pefkochori: Makis Tavern, Soublitsa
• Café tip in Pefkochori: Old Square

Glarokavos Lagoon

Individualists can take a short trip to the Glarokavos Lagoon. Here, we had quite high expectations, because many drone photos suggested a Caribbean backdrop from above. The man-made lagoon resembled a brackish water lake with a few old fishing boats at anchor.

The entrance channel of the lagoon had the character of a quarry pond, okay for a short photo. From a bird’s eye view, it’s certainly nice, but that’s all, you don’t have to put up with the dilapidated gravel road. Unfortunately, there was also a lot of garbage around the lake and the Lagoon Beach did not awaken in us any desire to bathe.

For families with (older) children, the Crazyland Water Park is recommended, which provides water fun west of the Glarokavos Lagoon. A good motorboat rental offers Riviera Boat Cruises, even without a driver’s license you can explore the coast of Pefkochori. More information at: Halkidiki rentaboat

#8 South of Kassandra

The South of Kassandra is largely deserted and large parts are still overgrown with dense coniferous forests. The beaches are no longer so light and sandy, but mostly consist of dark gravel. Kassandra’s southernmost resorts, Nea Skioni and Loutra, are only busy from May to September, although Loutra could even attract visitors all year round.

Loutra and Agia Paraskevi

Loutra means “thermal bath” in Greek. Like in other places in Greece (e.g. Lesvos or Kythnos), about 35 degrees hot thermal water streams out from the Earth’s interior. Full of expectation, we drove to the small coastal town, after all, the drive from the north of Kassandra to here takes almost an hour (50 km).

The municipal Thermal Spa Agia Paraskevi is picturesquely located on a rocky outcrop, but unfortunately does not live up to its name. The facility is getting on in years and only worth a visit for thermal enthusiasts, but the view from the viewpoint of the facility is quite nice. At Loutra Beach, the healing spring was not accessible to us because of the strong surf.

This makes a visit to the upper village of Agia Paraskevi all the more worthwhile, as it showcases the area at its most authentic. From the church of the same name, you walk into the village, whose alleys are lined with traditional houses with green gardens.

During the summer months, two highly regarded taverns, Biri Biri and Archontiko, located in close proximity to the Plateia, open their doors. This establishment is widely regarded by connoisseurs as one of the finest dining experiences on Kassandra.

Nea Skioni

6 km west of Loutra is the former fishing village of Nea Skioni. Here, tourism has already found its way in. In summer the town of 700 inhabitants is well visited, and in October the hay bales were already blowing through here. The waterfront promenade has charm, colorful kaiki boats bob in the harbor, the small boulevard with its park benches invites you to stroll.

Half a dozen taverns and cafes (tip: Karnagio Kafe Bar) provide for the physical well-being near the sea, in the maze of alleys there is even more choice. Holidaymakers seeking peace and quiet will find the most idyllic places around Nea Skioni. Quite a few holiday homes in Kassandra (View on Booking*) have a cozy garden and are located directly by the sea.

Church of Panagia Faneromeni

Exactly halfway between Nea Skioni and Loutra is the white-blue church of Ieros Naos Panagias Faneromenis, which is worth a short photo stop. St. Mary’s Church is located below the street, and when you enter, you are greeted by a green forecourt where a few cats jump around. Behind it, the sea glistens in its most beautiful blue.

Renovated from the outside in recent years, the original church from the 16th century is located a little deeper in the ground. Some of the original wall paintings are still preserved. Numerous votive tablets of Orthodox Greeks bear witness to the power of the miraculous icon of Mary. Light a candle and enjoy the mystical atmosphere of this sacred place.

Cape Kassandra

For tireless explorers, there is also the region around the southeastern Cape Kassandra, called Cape Sevas. On the way there you pass the town Paliohori (Restaurant tip: Al Terrazzo), which looks quite nice, but couldn’t inspire us at all.

A little later, some smaller and larger hotel complexes in the middle of nowhere follow, including the Miraggio Thermal Spa Resort (Watch on Booking.com*), a huge 5-star hotel complex with its own marina. If you are looking for an all-round carefree package away from the tourist crowds, you will find it here.

At the end of the paved road, you will reach the hamlet Xina, also known as Agios Nikolaos, which consists of a few houses and an improvised fishing port. The church of Agios Nikolaos stands high above the sea and is a beautiful photo opportunity. From here, the view extends to Sithonia along the entrance to the Toronaean Gulf.

From now on, only gravel roads lead to the lonely beaches, which mostly consist of gray gravel. The paths are only passable with four-wheel drive vehicles or you can explore the area on foot. From Xina to the weathered Cape Sevas, the bottom of the Kassandra, it is about 4 km and the path is only worthwhile for holidaymakers with a penchant for the hermitic.

#9 Beautiful beaches on Kassandra

There are plenty of attractive bathing opportunities on Kassandra. Personally, we found the most beautiful Kassandra Beaches to the east outside the big resorts. Here, the sea was always crystal clear.

In the west, on the Thermaic Gulf, there is an extensive dune landscape, but usually a gusty wind blows, which churns up the sea and creates some waves depending on the wind strength.

Simantro Beach

Beautiful golden sandy beach on the west coast of Kassandra, south of Sani Resort. The beach is very shallow and the water crystal clear. Ideal for families with children. In the low season, the beach is almost deserted and natural. In summer, the resident hotel sets up sunbeds and parasols in the southern part of the beach.

Agios Nikolaos Beach

Wild sandy beach south of Siviri, nestled in lush coniferous forest. It is best to park your car above the beach at the chapel of Anargyroi and walk down the rest of the gravel road to the beach. The bright sandy beach is natural and offers plenty of natural shade. In October, we were the only people on site.

Chrouso Beach (Paliouri Beach)

Large bay with a long golden sandy beach in the southeast of the island, which is mostly equipped with sunbeds and umbrellas as well as changing rooms and toilets. At the height of the old Xenia Hotel, there is a natural section where you can spread out your towel. The water is crystal clear and also ideal for families with children due to the shallow shore area. Heavily frequented in midsummer, an idyllic spot in the low season.

Pine Forest Beach

Lonely natural beach in the northeast of Kassandra above Nea Fokea. The dense pine forest here reaches down to the reddish sandy beach, which is sometimes somewhat covered with seagrass. The sea is also crystal clear here and invites you to refresh yourself. Ideal for those looking for some peace and quiet away from the crowded beaches.

#10 Ancient Olynthos and Mariana Tower

Nestled in the valley of the Sardanos River, lined with olive groves and framed by reddish rocks reminiscent of a Wild West backdrop, lie the remains of the ancient city of Olynthos. Probably the most famous archaeological site of Chalkdiki is located about 4 km north of Kassandra and is worth a visit because of its picturesque location.

In ancient times, Olynth was a prosperous city with great influence in Halkidiki. This brought rivals to the scene: Philip II, the father of Alexander the Great, destroyed the city in 348 BC because it had repeatedly shown itself uncooperative. After that, the other cities of Halkidiki surrendered and submitted to the Macedonian Empire.

Due to the young existence of the city (8th-4th century BC), many house layouts are still preserved in their original state despite the destruction. The typical Olynth building was two-storey, offered up to 500 m² of living space with magnificent bathrooms and was covered with a tiled roof. An astonishing size for the time!

Today, the excavation site extends over two hills, one southern and one northern. To the north was the so-called New Town of Olynth, which was founded after the Peloponnesian Wars when the population grew strongly. Here is the ruin field, which is accessible to visitors, which can be reached from the entrance area via a 400 m long path.

However, it must be said that the archaeological site is quite abstract, if you want to see something like Delphi or Olympia will be disappointed. In addition to the typical foundations of the houses of Olynth, you can guess public squares and see temple stumps, here and there is an amphora. Most of the finds are now in the Museum of Polygiros.

A highlight is undoubtedly the many floor mosaics with which the entrances of houses, temples and market halls were decorated. Again and again you can see the clay aqueducts of Ancient Olynth, which brought water into the city under pressure from springs 8 km away. Laid as early as the 7th century, they are among the oldest pressurized water pipes in Greece.

The visit will be rounded off in the 2024 newly opened Multimedia Museum of Olynthos not far from the entrance. In addition to interactive display boards in a small cinema, very interesting documentaries (English subtitles) about Olynth and the region are shown in a very small space.

Tower of Mariana

Another historical highlight of the region is the Tower of Mariana, about 3 km to the north, whose remains are located on a hill above the olive grove. The 15 m high Pyrgos Marianon was built in 1374 by the Athos monks of the Dochariou Monastery as part of an elaborate surveillance system of several towers in the region.

Just below the tower is a modern chapel built into the walls of a Byzantine basilica. A great photo opportunity! Active holidaymakers can take a scenic hike along the Sardanos River (dried up in summer) from here, and after 6 km you can reach the Vatonia Bridge, a well-preserved stone bridge (16th century) surrounded by picturesque nature.

#11 Highlights in the hinterland

Anyone who thinks that the sights of Halkidiki end with the three fingers is mistaken. There are some highlights waiting for you in the hinterland of Kassandra, many of which are still real insider tips or are usually only visited by locals. Enclosed we have put together a small selection of exploration options for you if you don’t feel like going to the beach and sea on your Halkidiki holiday.

Epanomi Shipwreck

On the western cape of Halkidiki, on a dune-like headland that juts far out into the sea, lies the Shipwreck of Epanomi, an interesting photo motif and dive site at the same time. Similar to the Zakynthos Shipwreck it was washed up on the coast during a storm decades ago.

From Kassandra to the wreck it takes about an hour, the last part to Cape Epanomi is a gravel road. In the summer months, some beach bars are open in this remote corner of Halkidiki. No wonder, as some suburbs of Thessaloniki are only 35 minutes away by car.

If you want, you can visit one of the local wineries of Epanomi (Recommendation: Ktima Gerovassiliou), the fine wines enjoy a good reputation. Alternatively, in summer you can also visit the Alpha Lavender Estate whose lavender fields extend over large parts of the region.

Petralona Cave

Another attraction in the hinterland of Kassandra is the Petralona Cave. In the stalactite cave 20 km north of Nea Moudania you can follow in the footsteps of human civilization. In 1960, the researcher Ioannis Petrocheilos discovered a well-preserved human skull here, in addition to animal bones and Stone Age tools.

A sensational find that remains a mystery to this day and, depending on the method of investigation, could be between 160,000 and 300,000 years old. Since then, a dispute has been raging between archaeologists and the Greek government over the extent to which the cave should be accessible to visitors. In 2011, the cave of Petralona was acquired by the state, after which it was closed to the public several times.

Since 2024, you can once again walk around 800 meters into Mount Katsika and admire several impressively illuminated halls with bizarre stalactite formations. Next door is the newly designed Petralona Museum, which exhibits multimedia content on the history of evolution as well as some finds, including prehistoric animal skeletons and a copy of a hominid skull.

• Opening hours Petrolana Cave: daily 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. (closed on Tuesdays), admission: 8 € (reduced 4 €)

Visit of Galatista

In our opinion, Halkidiki is still really original in the hinterland. Here, far away from the hustle and bustle of the coast, in the middle of nowhere, you can discover the soul of the peninsula. During our excursions away from the tourist crowds, we were always welcomed with open arms, so also in Galatista. The small town has a long history, the traces of settlement in the region date back to ancient times.

Walking through the narrow streets with the traditional houses, you will come across small village fountains and chapels, a mill and a quaint village square, as well as a huge Byzantine watchtower. The Tower of Galatista from the 14th century is the highlight par excellence, recently extensively restored, it is one of the best preserved medieval towers in Halkidiki.

The interior tour with exhibition, video film and information about Galatista is free of charge. From the plateau of the tower you have a wonderful view of the surroundings. You can then log in to the To Steki Tou Mitsea with hearty home cooking at unbeatable prices. With the friendly landlady we had the feeling of being guests of our favorite aunt.

• Opening hours Galatista Byzantine Tower: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. (closed on Tuesdays), free admission

Anastasia Pharmakolytria Monastery

Only 10 minutes by car from Galatista is the monastery complex Moni Agias Anastasias Farmakolitrias. It is not only worth a visit for those interested in spirituality, but also a varied destination in Halkidiki due to its historical architectural style and colorful decorations.

The monastery rises on the slope of Mount Ombriano and is visible from afar. It is dedicated to Anastasia of Sirmium, called “pharmacist” (Greek pharmakolytria), who died as a martyr in 304 AD. Anastasia was known as a miracle healer who, against the will of Rome, helped many needy people to regain their strength.

The history of the complex is remarkable: Originally founded in 888, it fell into disrepair in the Middle Ages and was only revived in 1522 by monks from Athos. During the Ottoman occupation, it was a stronghold of Orthodoxy and in 1821 the friars even supported the liberation struggle against the oppressors.

Unfortunately, in 2012, after a burglary, there was a major fire in which many valuable documents and relics were destroyed and valuable icons were stolen. After the reconstruction, the monastery shines again in new splendour. The tour is free of charge, and appropriate clothing must be worn. The monastery café outside is worth lingering.

More Kassandra tips for your holiday

Top Kassandra Tours & Activites

If you don’t just want to lie on the beach on Kassandra, you can take part in guided tours on land and water. In this way, you can get to know the peninsula off the beaten track. We have selected three beautiful tours or activities for you, which you can book directly through our partner GetYourGuide*:

➲ To the sunset boat tour*

➲ To the diving course for beginners*

➲ To the 4×4 jeep safari off-road experience*

Hotel tips for Kassandra

The western finger is characterized by package tourism, many hotels offer their guests an all-inclusive offer. But there are also numerous studios, holiday homes and villas available for holidaymakers who want to explore the peninsula individually. From affordable apartments to luxury resorts, there is something for every budget.

Here we spent the night on Kassandra

Akrolithos Luxury Suites, Flogita

This stylish boutique hotel with pool is located in the northern part of the Kassandra peninsula, just 45 minutes from Thessaloniki Airport. The nine tastefully decorated suites can accommodate up to 4 guests. Thanks to the hotel’s elevated position, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the sea and spectacular sunsets with the majestic Mount Olympus in the background.

The dedicated team around the sympathetic host Giannis made sure that we felt at home from the first minute. Every morning a lovingly prepared breakfast awaited us. Akrolithos is an ideal starting point to explore the peninsulas of Kassandra and Sithonia in Halkidiki by rental car. Click on the links for more details and prices of the accommodation:

➲ Book Akrolithos Suites (Booking.com)*

➲ To book Akrolithos Suites (hotel website)

Camping in Kassandra

Camping Ouzoni Beach

The friendly owner Dimitris and his family run their campsite south of Nea Moudania with heart and soul. The location is well suited for exploring the entire Cassandra. The campsite is very well maintained, offers pitches of about 60-77 m² and clean sanitary facilities, perfect for relaxing Camping in Greece.

The beautiful sandy beach is right outside the camping door, including the sound of the sea in the first rows. In summer it can get very crowded, it is advisable to reserve a place in advance. The sunsets with Mount Olympus in the background were among the most beautiful we have ever experienced in Greece.

→ More information about the Kassandra Campsite at: ouzounibeach

Where to stay in Kassandra

Here is our personal selection of beautiful accommodations in Kassandra. Click on the links from Booking.com* to find out more about the accommodation:

• Bohemia Luxury Living, Chaniotis*
• IADES Suites, Afytos*
• Pefki Deluxe Residences, Pefkochori*

Car hire for Kassandra

Compared to its eastern sisters, Kassandra offers a very good tourist infrastructure. The Kassandra Highway is an expressway that runs from Thessaloniki Airport to the center of the peninsula. It ends in Kallithea at the local Lidl market. Most of the roads are paved and easily passable.

A public bus network connects the most important places of Kassandra. In summer, the buses are often very full. Current timetables can be found at: KTEL Halkidikis

To explore the remote places and secluded beaches of Kassandra, it is recommended to rent your own car. You can book cheap rental cars in advance, e.g. with our partner Discover Cars*:

➲ To cheap rental cars*

→ More articles and numerous Halkidiki travel tips can be found at:

• Halkidiki Blog – The region at a glance

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